How to Change Names in Alberta

Name changes can occur for a number of reasons, and there are different procedures and paperwork required depending on your situation:

Alberta marriage name change

Marriage is the most common reason for people to change names. While there’s no law that women must change names on marriage, approximately 80% of brides will go onto change names. All government agencies that issue identification and hold other sensitive information will need to see your original marriage certificate as issued from Vital Statistics. You can apply for an Alberta Marriage Certificate from an Alberta Registry Agent. We provide the application form as part of our kits, you can download it via the link below.

Once you have your marriage certificate simply show the necessary organizations to have your name changed. Some companies allow name change by mail, in which case we will provide that company’s special name change form, or else a ready to send letter or fax in your name. In many cases you can just sign and send.

Alberta divorce name change

If you’re already divorced and want to go back to your prior name you need an original divorce decree. Take your original decree to any Alberta Registry Agent to change the name on your driver’s license and Alberta health care card. Most banks also need to see your original decree in person. Most other companies allow name change by mail or over the phone.

We provide all the name change paperwork, including company’s name change forms and ready to send letters and faxes pre-addressed to each company, so you can just sign and send. If any companies have other procedures, we tell you exactly what to do so you don’t need to spend hours on hold.

There’s no time limit on changing names. You can choose to be known by either your married or maiden name at any time. We recommend getting the same name across all your identification and accounts so you don’t have difficulties when proving your identity.

Alberta Legal Name Change

If you’re taking a name for any other reason, or taking a name other than your spouse’s, you’ll need a legal name change. Read our separate section on Alberta Legal Name Change, or if you’re ready to start changing names now just click the button below.

Whilst it is common for married name change to take place within a few months of a wedding, there is no legal time frame required. It's best to follow our advice so you don't have problems proving identity. MORE